Mazda Mazda3

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Model Overview

The Mazda3 is known for its sharp handling and fun-to-drive nature. Competing against the top-selling Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla, the Mazda3 is offered as a sedan and four-door hatchback, with fuel economy near the top of its class.

History

First introduced in 2004 as a replacement for the Protege, the Mazda3 has consistently offered buyers sports-car-like handling, decent acceleration and, increasingly over the years, attractive styling. When Motor Trend reviewed the first-generation Mazda3, we praised it for its standard features like fluid-filled front-suspension bushings, four-wheel disc brakes, and electrohydraulic steering, features normally found in larger, more expensive cars. Navigation, HID headlights, and leather seats were among the optional features available that weren’t always found on competitors’ options lists. In that review, we also appreciated its handling abilities and power.

When we tested the second-generation 2010 Mazda3, we found that the new model not only lost weight but received a more rigid chassis, all-new exterior, more powerful and efficient engines, and kept its sporty handling characteristics and performance numbers. Most common complaints were the small navigation screen and the “smiling” front grille. When pitted against nine of its competitors, the 2010 Mazda3 was one of the top performing models and the editor said “Great dynamics and stand-out features make this one a good buy — if you can afford it.”

The latest and third-generation of the Mazda3 was released in 2014 with a complete overhaul from the outgoing model. Now on a new platform no longer shared with Ford, the Mazda3 improved on an already impressive outgoing model. Loaded with new engines, suspension, sheetmetal, and technology, the latest Mazda3 is getting praised all over again. During Motor Trend’s 2014 Car of the Year testing, the Mazda3 was voted a finalist with its cramped rear-seat and high price as the only main complaints. The car earned second place in The Big Test: 2015/2016 Hatchback comparison, and fourth place in The Big Test: 2016/2017 Compact Sedans.

The Latest Generation

The latest generation Mazda3 will have some improvements coming in 2017 including minor styling updates, additional safety equipment, and improved ride and handling. The two Skyactiv engines offer excellent fuel economy and power, and the automaker’s version of a head-up display has been improved. As with the pre-refresh model, the Mazda3 continues to offer active safety tech, though so far, only on higher trims.

Why You’d Consider One

It’s hard not to like the Mazda3. The superior handling, long list of technology and safety features, good looks, and high-quality interior will make most buyers very happy. In addition, the Mazda3 is a IIHS Top Safety Pick+ and earned five out of five possible stars from the NHTSA for its overall safety testing score.

Why You’d Look Elsewhere

In Motor Trend’s The Big Test: 2016/2017 Compact Sedans, the 2016 Mazda3 finished a surprising fourth place out of six cars, behind the Hyundai Elantra, Chevrolet Cruze, and Honda Civic. However, it won a similar comparison in 2014. This is an indication of how quickly the compact segment improves, and we wouldn’t mind more interior space, as well.